A little reason to celebrate
National Harvey Wallbanger Day
Drink ยท November 8
A day for the Harvey Wallbanger, a tall cocktail of vodka, orange juice and a float of Galliano, the golden Italian herbal liqueur.
National Harvey Wallbanger Day falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026. That is 12 days away.
A Harvey Wallbanger is a screwdriver with one extra move. Vodka and orange juice go into a tall glass over ice, and then a little Galliano is floated on top. That last pour is the whole personality of the drink.
Galliano is a bright yellow Italian liqueur that tastes of vanilla and anise, with herbal notes underneath. It comes in a tall, narrow bottle that tends to stand out on a back bar shelf. Floated over orange juice, it adds a sweet, faintly licorice edge to the first few sips, then slowly mixes in as the drink goes down.
The result is easy and sunny, closer to a brunch drink than a nightcap. It is usually served in a highball glass, often with an orange slice or a cherry. Some bartenders stir the Galliano in rather than floating it, which gives a more even flavor and a less dramatic look.
The name sounds like a character from an old comic strip, and the drink carries some of that retro feel. People mark the day by ordering one at a bar that still keeps Galliano around, or by mixing one at home. Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a noticeable difference, since it is most of the glass.
If the bottle of Galliano is new to your kitchen, it also works in a few other classic cocktails, so it will not sit untouched for long.
Ways to celebrate
- Mix a Harvey Wallbanger at home with fresh squeezed orange juice.
- Try floating the Galliano, then stirring a second one, and compare.
- Ask a local bartender how they like to make one.
- Make an alcohol free version with orange juice and a splash of vanilla syrup.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, November 8 |
| 2027 | Monday, November 8 |
| 2028 | Wednesday, November 8 |
| 2029 | Thursday, November 8 |
| 2030 | Friday, November 8 |
All national days on November 8
Also on November 8
- National Cappuccino Day
- Abet and Aid Punsters Day
- Cook Something Bold and Pungent Day
- National Dunce Day
- National STEAM Day
Categories: Drink days